Big appetites

Zealand is sleeping right now after an incredibly busy morning. We began the day with stories on daddy's lap. Zealand has developed a ferocious appetite for books. He wants book, after book, after book - often the same one over and over again. Before the last page is even through he is thrusting the book toward you to read it again.

Zealand loves books and food. This morning he could barely wait for buttermilk pancakes to come together on the skillet. And, he loves to hang in my arms while I cook and offer commentary - "haa" - for hot. This can be tricky when I am trying to prepare his meals. But, maybe watching will inspire his own future culinary creativity. I can't wait to teach him how to cook. Some girlfriend or wife down the road will be very grateful.

After fistfuls of pancake covered with berries we packed our bags and headed over to the Y for swim time, music class, and jungle gym time. What a life!

Zealand stood on the pool steps grabbing and throwing rings with characteristic gusto. He would scramble out of the pool and walk to the fence and back with huge grins and plenty of "ooh ooh." He loves the water but has a hard time sitting still to just float and enjoy. He is too revved up for float time (which I suppose only sounds good to me).

Kim and Sammy were with us for the pool and we were later joined by Tamara and Polly and their babes. Zealand's favorite part of music class is the end when the teacher blows bubbles all over the kids. Zealand waves his arms and runs through the bubbles in a state of bliss.

We gave Tamara and Maricela a ride home and when we finally made it to our door I found a little boy slumped over sound asleep. A lot can happen before noon!